THE FACES OF FRAUD — Know the Most Common Types of Identity Theft in California
Discover the most common forms of identity theft Californians face today—and what to do if your identity is compromised
Learn how R23 Law’s California Identity Theft Victim Lawyers can protect your rights and restore your financial life.
In today’s digital-first world, identity theft isn’t always committed by shadowy hackers cracking into national databases. Often, it’s closer to home—and far more personal. From stolen Social Security numbers to hijacked medical records, identity theft has evolved into one of the most pervasive consumer threats in California.
At R23 Law, our California Identity Theft Victim Lawyers are on the frontlines of this fight. We help victims recover their stolen identities, defend their rights under the California Identity Theft Act (CITA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and take legal action to hold fraudsters accountable.
Most Common Types of Identity Theft You Need to Know
Understanding the tactics thieves use is the first step to protecting yourself—and knowing when to act fast.
1. Financial Identity Theft
This is the most recognized form of identity theft. It occurs when someone gains unauthorized access to your financial data to:
Make fraudulent purchases
Open new credit accounts in your name
Drain your bank account
Take out loans under your identity
If your credit score drops unexpectedly or you spot unfamiliar transactions, it could be a red flag that someone’s using your identity to their advantage.
2. Tax Identity Theft
This occurs when someone uses your Social Security number to file a tax return in your name and steal your refund. Victims often don’t find out until their legitimate return is rejected by the IRS. California residents are especially vulnerable during peak tax season.
3. Medical Identity Theft
In this growing trend, thieves use your identity to obtain medical treatment, prescription drugs, or insurance reimbursements. Beyond the financial cost, this kind of fraud can lead to dangerous health consequences—such as incorrect treatment plans or life-threatening prescription conflicts due to inaccurate medical records.
What To Do If You’re a Victim of Identity Theft
Identity theft can be financially and emotionally devastating. The faster you act, the more control you can regain. Here’s where to start:
Notify Financial Institutions Immediately
Alert your banks and credit card issuers to prevent further fraud or unauthorized withdrawals.
File a Police Report & Notify the IRS (for tax fraud)
If someone has filed taxes in your name, you’ll need to file IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) and request a PIN for future returns.
Contact Your Insurance Provider (for medical fraud)
They can flag suspicious claims and add extra verification protocols.
Freeze Your Credit Reports
Contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to restrict access to your credit files and stop thieves from opening new accounts.
Consult a Lawyer Experienced in Identity Theft Cases
This is where R23 Law steps in.
Why You Need R23 Law’s California Identity Theft Victim Lawyers
Identity theft recovery isn’t just about paperwork—it’s a legal battle for your name, credit, and peace of mind. At R23 Law, we’ve helped clients:
Remove fraudulent accounts from credit reports
File lawsuits under the California Identity Theft Act
Obtain restraining orders or financial restraining orders in cases involving domestic identity theft
Recover damages under the FCRA for financial harm and emotional distress
Our team understands how invasive and painful identity theft can be. That’s why we fight aggressively to restore your reputation and secure the compensation you deserve.
Get Legal Help Now
Whether you’ve been affected by financial fraud, medical identity theft, or unauthorized tax filings, R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys are here to guide you.
📞 Schedule your free consultation now
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